Insigne Collegiata di Santa Maria in Provenzano: A Siena Sanctuary

The Insigne Collegiata di Santa Maria in Provenzano, located in Piazza Provenzano Salvani, is a significant Roman Catholic church in Siena, Italy. This collegiate church, built in the late-Renaissance-Baroque style, is dedicated to the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Saint Elizabeth. The church is famous for housing the Madonna di Provenzano, a 14th-century terracotta icon credited with miracles. Construction of the church began in 1595 and was completed in 1611, with consecration by Archbishop Camillo Borghesi. The church was built to enshrine the revered icon of the Madonna, which was originally located on the wall of a house in the neighborhood. The event was captured in a painting by Taddeo Gregori, now housed in the Sacristy. The church has a Latin Cross layout, a white marble facade, and a peaked dome. Inside, visitors can admire artworks such as the Mass of San Cerbone by Rutilio Manetti and canvases by Francesco Rustici and Giovanni Domenico Manenti. The Madonna di Provenzano is deeply connected to the Palio di Siena, a famous horse race held annually on July 2nd. The Palio is run in honor of the Madonna di Provenzano, and the banner (drappellone) awarded to the winning contrada (neighborhood) always depicts her image. Before the race, the drappellone is brought to the church and displayed. The worship of Madonna di Provenzano developed after the fall of the Republic of Siena. Visiting the Insigne Collegiata offers a blend of religious, artistic, and cultural experiences. The church stands as a testament to Siena's traditions and artistic heritage.